Music and Worship

Slater Murphy, Music and Worship R&R Chair

Let There Be Worship, Let There Be Praise

SATB

Joseph M. Martin

GlorySound/Shawnee Press 35012630

One of Joseph Martin’s best texts, set to a compelling melody with creative harmonic treatments.  The song presents the reminder that all throughout the day, and in whatever circumstance, we can find opportunities to worship.  This setting works well with a student group.

At the Name of Jesus

SATB

Cindy Berry

Word Music 3010473168

For many, this beautiful selection has achieved “classic” status.  It is a wonderful paraphrase of Philippians 2:6-11, one of the Apostle Paul’s personal moments of worship as he, in hymnic form, digs deep regarding the theology of Christ.  It’s hard to believe Cindy wrote this song 31 years ago!  I’ve used this with many groups over the years.  The orchestration is superb. 

Wings of the Dawn

SATB

Linda Spencer

Shawnee Press 35025960

Based on Psalm 139, this well-crafted and thoughtful setting reminds the singer of God’s constant and unfailing presence with us, no matter how we may rise and fall in the turbulence of life.  I’ve used this with several student groups, each of which gained a great appreciation of the depth of truth contained in this song.  

Tune My Heart to Sing Thy Grace

By Paul B. Clark, Jr.

Crossbooks

I cannot highly enough recommend this text for today’s Music Minister or Worship Leader.  The central focus throughout the book is on leading your church to renewal in congregational singing.  Paul’s discourse on worship history and the theological background of why we do what we do informs all of his admonitions, suggestions, and passionate pleas.  Written by one of our leading thinkers and expositors, it has proven to be extremely helpful to many churches who have struggled with the chronic problem of disconnect between the platform and the pew.